It is common knowledge that Ritalin and other ADHD medications have several side effects associated with them. However, doctors still continue using these medications in treating ADHD in children and adults. Could it be that the positive effects of these drugs far outweigh the side effects that they cause?

Perhaps only doctors can answer this question in a scientific level. But parents still have the freedom to express their different opinions on this matter.

There are many written materials on the Internet discussing the many side effects of Ritalin on patients taking this drug. In fact, only a few websites delve into the positive effects that this medication can bring to patients. To help you gauge if the positive effects of the drug far outweigh its side effects, let us take the following into consideration:

Ritalin’s Positive Effects:

Children who are given Ritalin show

1. less problematic behavior after intake of the drug

2. increased self-esteem

3. more attention to people

4. ability to complete assigned tasks

5. less hostility

6. enhanced skills in mathematics

7. enhanced focus in reading and writing

8. enhanced social interactions

There are some children, however, who may not react well to Ritalin medication. Certainly, the effects of medications also depend on the patient taking them. For some, Ritalin medication may work well while for others it may not work at all. In such cases, the doctor may advise changing the dose of the medication or changing the medication altogether.

Now, let us take a look at the possible adverse effects of this medication in ADHD patients. Statistics have shown the following side effects in patients on Ritalin medications.

Ritalin’s Side Effects:

1. nervousness

2. insomnia

3. suppression of growth

4. suppression of weight gain

5. hypersensitivity which includes fever, skin irritations or allergies, exfoliative dermatitis, and urticaria

6. dizziness

7. anorexia

8. palpitations

9. abdominal pain

10. weight loss

11. decreased appetite

12. high blood pressure

13. anemia

14. scalp hair loss

15. drowsiness

16. psychosis

These are only some of the possible Ritalin side effects. There are still many other side effects that may arise from taking the drug. However, not all of these can be felt by the patient. Perhaps one or two of these may arise after intake of the drug. In some instances, the side effects are only mild. In some children, however, the side effects can have a really bad effect on the patient.

These side effects are the main reasons why many parents are now concerned about having their child take medications. Ritalin’s side effects are far too many to be ignored by concerned parents.

The list above, though, does not confirm if the side effects of Ritalin medications do outweigh the positive effects of the drug. It will take more study and experience before this fact can be confirmed.

If the side effects worry you too much, there are alternative treatments that can be given to the child with ADHD. These alternative treatments can be as effective as medications after prolonged use. Some of these alternative medications are homeopathic remedies and herbal remedies.

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